At least regionally it seems people are taking heed of pleas from government and health officials to stay home this Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
A recent AAA Mid-Atlantic Thanksgiving travel survey says 86% of Delaware residents are not traveling for this holiday with 49% citing COVID-19 as the reason.
The numbers are similar across the region. In Maryland, 89% are not traveling for Thanksgiving with 50% saying it’s because of the pandemic, while in Pennsylvania 83% are staying home with 40% pointing to COVID-19 for their decision.
AAA Mid-Atlantic’s Ken Grant says they’re a little surprised by the overwhelming numbers.
“We were surprised at both the high numbers of people saying they weren’t traveling, the number of people saying that the COVID was the primary reason for that,” said Grant. “This is simply because we expected to see a little bit more push back from the public on some of the restrictions that are being advised now by various health officials and government officials but it seems like people are really getting the message.”
Grant says if you’re among those who are traveling for the holiday, make sure you do your research and keep human contact to a minimum.
“You can go to triptik.AAA.com to find an interactive map with the latest COVID related restrictions throughout each state. So, do your research on that,” said Grant. “Also, as you’re traveling, maybe plan ahead so you don’t have to make as many stops along the way for meals or anything. Pack extra meals so you limit your exposure to other people while you’re traveling.”
Grant notes for those traveling by car this year, gas prices are the lowest in 15 years.
Grant adds the expectation is that air travel will see the largest one-year decrease on record. And for those flying, he recommends wiping down your seat, armrest, belt buckle and tray table with disinfectant wipes as a precaution.
